Animals That Make Me Say Ewwww!

That's so gross!

Prepare to be repulsed by an engaging and unique look at some of the more disgusting survival techniques from the animal kingdom.

From blood-squirting reptiles to blood-sweating mammals to nose-picking primates, these animals will make you say "Ewww!" Author Dawn Cusick and the National Wildlife Federation compile a volume as attractive as its subject is disgusting.

Official book of the National Wildlife Federation, dedicated to protecting all earth's creatures.

Look Inside the Book:

Author & Illustrator Bios:

Dawn Cusick, author

Dawn Cusick enjoys making science education fun for both kids and adults. Dawn writes award-winning children's nature nonfiction books. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida, a certificate of post-Baccalaureate Major in Biology from the University of North Carolina-Asheville, and a Masters of Science in Biology from Western Carolina University. Her research work involves species' recognition and speciation in cryptic katydids. She teaches general biology and zoology courses at Haywood Community College.

The National Wildlife Federation, America's largest wildlife conservation and education organization, is dedicated to "inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children's future." It is also home to the award-winning Ranger Rick and Ranger Rick, Jr. magazines and apps.

Editorial Reviews:

Publishers Weekly

In the third book in a Ranger Rick-branded series, written in partnership with the National Wildlife Federation, photographs show wild animals in their more uncouth moments. Cusick invites readers to revel in being grossed out while also encouraging them to rethink animal behavior. Gorillas eat their own "nasal detritus" because "there is so much competition for food in the wild that the small amount of energy in a booger is worth eating." Meanwhile, hippos swat their tails in circles while they poop, "sending feces flying in many directions. Pooping this way lets them send their communication chemicals farther away." For every icky description of, say, how a kangaroo mother cleans her pouch with her tongue ("There's no toilet flush button in a kangaroo mom's pouch"), Cusick's insights into animal biology offer a valuable counterpoint.